Cream of Mushroom Soup
Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This rich and creamy soup is perfect for cozy dinners, elegant gatherings, or even as a starter for a festive feast. With its robust flavor profile and simple ingredients, making your own cream of mushroom soup will make store-bought varieties a thing of the past.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: This soup boasts a deep, earthy taste from fresh mushrooms and aromatic herbs.
- Quick Preparation: In just 40 minutes, you can create a delicious homemade soup that rivals restaurant-quality dishes.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or pair it with your favorite sandwich for a delightful meal.
- Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the seasonings and types of mushrooms to suit your taste preferences.
- Healthy Homemade Option: Control the ingredients and sodium levels for a healthier alternative to canned soups.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating your creamy masterpiece.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking all the ingredients evenly while allowing enough space for stirring and simmering.
- Sharp knife: Makes chopping onions and slicing mushrooms quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for better cooking.
Ingredients
Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup is full flavoured and so easy to make. Soup in a can will be a thing of the past!
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 2 cups onions (diced (about 2 medium onions))
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 pounds brown mushrooms (fresh, sliced)
- 4 teaspoons chopped thyme (divided)
- 1/2 cup Marsala wine (any dry red or white wine)
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth (or stock)
- 1-2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2-1 teaspoons black pepper (cracked, adjust to taste)
- 2 beef bouillon cubes (crumbled)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half, sub with evaporated milk)
- 1/2 tablespoon parsley (chopped, fresh, to serve)
- 1/2 tablespoon thyme (chopped, fresh, to serve)
How to Make Cream of Mushroom Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat butter and oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until melted.
Sauté onion for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
Cook garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
Add mushrooms and 2 teaspoons thyme; cook for 5 minutes.
Pour in wine and allow to cook for an additional 3 minutes.
Step 3: Thicken the Base
Sprinkle mushrooms with flour; mix well and cook for 2 minutes.
Add stock; mix again and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low-medium heat; season with salt, pepper, and crumbled bouillon cubes.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Cover the pot and allow it to simmer for 10–15 minutes while occasionally stirring until thickened.
Step 5: Add Cream
Reduce heat to low; stir in cream or half-and-half.
Allow it to gently simmer without boiling.
Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste.
Step 6: Finish with Herbs
Mix in parsley and remaining thyme before serving warm.
With these steps completed, you’ll have a delicious bowl of homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup, ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Cream of Mushroom Soup
Cream of Mushroom Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some suggestions for serving this creamy delight to enhance your meal experience.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- A thick slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, adding texture and flavor.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme on top for an appealing garnish and an extra burst of flavor.
Serve with Grated Cheese
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese can elevate the soup, adding a rich and savory note.
Accompany with a Salad
- A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast in flavors.
Enjoy as a Side Dish
- Serve Cream of Mushroom Soup alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a comforting and hearty meal.
Make it a Meal with Sandwiches
- Pairing the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich creates a classic, satisfying combination that is loved by many.
How to Perfect Cream of Mushroom Soup
To achieve the best version of Cream of Mushroom Soup, consider these helpful tips for optimal results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and herbs will enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
- Don’t Rush Sautéing: Take your time sautéing onions and garlic; this builds a depth of flavor that makes the soup richer.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour or reduce the amount of broth during cooking.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or paprika to introduce new flavors that complement mushrooms beautifully.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your soup right after cooking while it’s warm and creamy.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain creaminess.
Best Side Dishes for Cream of Mushroom Soup
Cream of Mushroom Soup pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter offers a crunchy counterpart to the creamy soup.
- Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds crunch and zest, enhancing your meal’s overall freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide sweetness and texture alongside the soup.
- Quiche: A slice of quiche complements the richness of Cream of Mushroom Soup and makes for a hearty meal.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can add substance, turning your soup into a more filling dinner option.
- Pan-Seared Chicken: A simple pan-seared chicken breast can elevate your meal while keeping it light yet satisfying.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges tossed in herbs offer a delightful crunch that pairs well with creamy soups.
- Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf adds heartiness without overwhelming the palate, making it an excellent companion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cream of Mushroom Soup at home is simple, but even experienced cooks can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong mushrooms: Not all mushrooms are created equal. Stick with fresh brown mushrooms or cremini for the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing onions and garlic enhances their flavors. Skipping this step can lead to a bland soup.
- Overcooking the flour: When adding flour, cook just long enough to remove its raw taste. Overcooking can lead to a gummy texture in your soup.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving. Each ingredient can vary in saltiness, so trust your palate!
- Boiling after adding cream: Boiling can cause the cream to curdle. Always simmer gently after adding dairy products.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring each time.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring often until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re new to making Cream of Mushroom Soup, you might have questions. Here are some frequently asked ones:
Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, dried mushrooms can be used, but they should be rehydrated first for optimal texture.
How do I make this soup vegetarian?
Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Try incorporating herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for additional depth of flavor.
How do I thicken my Cream of Mushroom Soup?
You can thicken it by adding more flour or using cornstarch mixed with cold water as a slurry.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different herbs or add-ins like chicken or vegetables according to your preference. It’s perfect as a cozy appetizer or a comforting main dish. Try making it today!
Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup is a delightful, comforting dish that warms the heart and soul. With a rich and creamy texture, this soup transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality experience at home. Perfect for cozy dinners or as an elegant starter for gatherings, it features fresh mushrooms and aromatic herbs to create a depth of flavor that will redefine your soup experience. In just under 40 minutes, you can savor a bowl of this creamy goodness that promises to make canned soups a thing of the past. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 2 cups diced onions (about 2 medium)
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1.5 pounds sliced brown mushrooms
- 4 teaspoons chopped thyme (divided)
- 0.5 cup dry Marsala wine
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat butter and oil over medium-high heat. Sauté onions until softened, about 3 minutes; add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add sliced mushrooms and 2 teaspoons thyme; cook for about 5 minutes before pouring in Marsala wine. Cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stir well, and cook for another 2 minutes. Gradually add chicken broth while mixing; bring to a boil then reduce heat.
- Simmer covered for about 10–15 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cream; gently simmer without boiling. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish with parsley and remaining thyme before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 614mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
